Errigal College, is one of 16 schools in Ireland to be recognised by the AIB Future Sparks Programme out of nearly 600 schools.
The AIB Future Sparks Programme is a new skills-based interdisciplinary programme for secondary school students, aimed at supporting 12-18 year olds in the development and learning of key life skills.
The programme focuses on themes including sustainability, financial wellness, health and well-being, globalisation and civic literacy. It also supports the development of core skills including communications, critical thinking and digital innovation.
A teacher at Errigal College, Mr. Evan Gorrell, set out to help his 1st Year students appreciate and consider the opportunities an entrepreneurial career can offer. Students at Errigal College explored what skills and characteristic are necessary to become an entrepreneur.
Through a range of exciting projects and group work, students worked collaboratively to learn from and teach each other. As well as developing their entrepreneurial skills through research and theory, students also learned two crucial ‘hidden’ skills – adaptability and perseverance.
Errigal College has received a plaque to commemorate its participation, as well as a native Irish tree which will be planted on the grounds of their school.
These trees will contribute to the bank’s commitment to plant 90,000 native Irish trees over the next three years on behalf of new AIB second-level student account holders. Students were also awarded with individual digital certs to recognise their hard work while supporting biodiversity.
Speaking on the programme, Mr. Evan Gorrell at Errigal College, said: “The AIB Future Sparks programme is giving our students valuable life skills. The students now have an appreciation for perseverance and can see the benefit it has not just in school, but for later in life.”
AIB’s Chief People Officer, Geraldine Casey, said: “I would like to congratulate Errigal College on their fantastic achievement and indeed all of the students and schools who have participated in the AIB Future Sparks Programme. At AIB, we are delighted to play our part in supporting students and teachers with educational resources under this programme to guide skills development and preparedness for life beyond school and the world of work.”
Through the programme, students and teachers have access to over 55 educational videos from more than 45 different business, thought leaders and entrepreneurs. They also have access to 190 educational resources including case studies, worksheets, lesson plans and exam questions with content tailored to the various age groups throughout second level.
The AIB Future Sparks Programme is free for all teachers and schools to join, and they can register for the programme on AIB’s website.
